Physiotherapy (also known as physical therapy) is a medical treatment that uses natural body movements to help you manage any motion-related problem without the need for invasive surgery. It’s a highly-recommended mode of treatment by doctors and patients alike, as it helps you heal quickly and restores your mobility. Physiotherapy involves a combination of techniques such as biomechanics or kinesiology, manual therapy and exercise therapy to improve your muscle strength and flexibility.
Is physiotherapy an exercise?
You might be referred to a physiotherapist by your doctor or you may choose to see one on your own. Some health insurance plans cover physiotherapy, but it’s best to check first. Physiotherapists work in many settings, including clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities and even at your home. Read more about our service
A physiotherapist can help you with a variety of conditions, such as neck pain, joint and back pain, repetitive strain injury, sports injuries, arthritic problems like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis, gout and other chronic widespread pain. They also treat musculoskeletal problems in infants and people with spinal cord injuries or strokes, as well as those with burns or other severe injuries.
Physiotherapists are trained to teach you exercises that can help you strengthen your muscles, improve your balance and mobility/flexibility and enhance your coordination. They can also offer other treatments, such as shortwave diathermy to reduce pain and swelling or hot/cold therapy. Depending on your condition, a physical therapist may recommend certain lifestyle changes. You’ll need to be self-disciplined and commit to regular sessions in order to get the most out of your physiotherapy.